CVE-2018-17661 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2018-17661 article provides insights into a vulnerability affecting Foxit Reader version 9.2.0.9297.

Understanding CVE-2018-17661

This section delves into the details of the vulnerability and its impact.

What is CVE-2018-17661?

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader 9.2.0.9297 allows attackers to execute unauthorized code by exploiting a flaw in the messageBox method of a Host object. Attackers can trigger this vulnerability by interacting with a corrupted webpage or file.

The Impact of CVE-2018-17661

The presence of this vulnerability enables attackers to run unauthorized code on susceptible versions of Foxit Reader 9.2.0.9297. The flaw lies in the manipulation of the messageBox method of a Host object, allowing attackers to execute code in the ongoing process.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-17661

This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is classified as CWE-416: Use After Free, allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Foxit Reader 9.2.0.9297.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Reader
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.2.0.9297

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the flaw in the messageBox method of a Host object
User interaction is required to visit a malicious page or open a malicious file

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2018-17661.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader to the latest version
Avoid interacting with suspicious webpages or files

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications
Implement security best practices to prevent code execution vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security bulletins from Foxit
Apply patches and updates promptly to secure systems